Redwoods save the Skunk Train

The Save the Redwoods League has paid the Skunk Train $300,000 to fix the tunnel and restore service, in an agreement announced Wednesday morning.

In exchange, the League will have an exclusive three-year option to either purchase the Skunk Train corridor or to establish conservation easements along all of the 40 miles or only part of it.

Skunk Train operations could be restored between Willits and Northspur in time for the July 4th holiday festivities, says Chief Skunk Robert Pinoli. The major repair of the 1,122-foot-long tunnel about four miles outside of Fort Bragg will take longer.

"We are hoping the train will continue for many, many years to come. Where else is there such a juxtaposition of redwoods and a historic train. We are very pleased to have a hand in conserving both," says Harry Pollack, COO and acting executive director of Save the Redwoods League.

"We were pleased the owner of the Skunk Train contacted us about the tunnel, as he was concerned over potentially having to sell some of the Redwood trees to timber companies in order for the railway to survive," says Pollack. "Protecting the old-growth forest and historic access through the redwoods is directly in line with the League's mission? to protect the redwoods and when appropriate secure access for the public to enjoy them."?

"We have had an interest in this area, especially since the earlier purchase of the Noyo River redwoods," says Pollack.

The $300,000 payment to the Skunk Train is non-refundable. It purchases a three-year option to establish a longer term agreement. During this period, the Skunk Train agrees not to cut any trees for revenue. One of the next steps in the longer-term process is an appraisal of the property.

The Skunk Train will be allowed to conduct its ongoing track maintenance without restrictions during this period, says Pollack.

Pollack says the League has not narrowed the scope of possible future options, which range from purchasing the 40 miles of land under the Skunk Train line to establishing conservation easements along only a few stretches of the route.

"We want to preserve, not only the redwoods, but also the view shed' for those who travel on the Skunk Train," says Pollack. He considers conservation easements to be a legal tool to preserve a variety of conservation values -- including view sheds.' Pollack also expects the League to look closely at streams and the Noyo River for unique conservation opportunities along the right-of-way.